The Soviet Union is suffering economically in 1964. Additionally, the military is unhappy as is the intelligentsia. Both of these groups feel that something needs to be done and the current leadership is not acting.

2. Rather then vacationing during the summer of 1964, as was recommended, what does Khrushchev do instead?

Rather then vacationing during the summer of 1964, as was recommended, Khrushchev tours Egypt and Scandinavia. While the intention of these visits may have been work, he did not accomplish very much.

3. Why should Khrushchev have listened to his children's warnings of conspiracy?

Khrushchev should have listened to his children's warnings of conspiracy because shortly after a phone call with Brezhnev, Brezhnev launched a verbal attack on Khrushchev accusing him of bringing disorganization to the government, ignoring opinions, acting unilaterally, being rude and providing ineffective leadership. Furthermore, Brezhnev takes Khrushchev's position as party leader after Khrushchev's retirement.